By Dayangku Hidayatul
KUCHING, Oct 16: Lingga assemblywoman Dayang Noorazah Awang Sohor has urged stronger waste management in Maludam after 16 dengue cases were reported in the area in September.
She said accumulated rubbish could obstruct water flow and undermine drainage systems, particularly during heavy rain and high tides, while stagnant water in poorly maintained surroundings and containers could create breeding grounds for aedes mosquitoes.
“In September 2026, a total of 16 dengue cases were reported in Maludam, prompting a large-scale gotong-royong clean-up campaign to curb the spread of the disease.
“I am also deeply concerned about the risk of serious dengue complications, including dengue haemorrhagic fever, particularly among vulnerable groups such as the elderly, children and those at high risk.
“Do we have to wait until people are hospitalised, floods inundate residents’ homes or an outbreak spreads further before comprehensive cleaning measures are carried out?,” she said debating on the Sarawak Supply (2027) Bill at the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUS) sitting today.
Dayang Noorazah said cleanliness was not merely about appearance, but also public health, safety and effective administration.
She said poor waste management around Sri Aman’s commercial shoplots, markets and rubbish collection points had led to unhygienic conditions and unpleasant odours, affecting traders, customers and visitors.
She proposed a District Cleanliness Performance Assessment System to strengthen monitoring by the relevant ministry and local authorities.
The assessment should cover rubbish collection, market cleanliness, waste disposal points, drainage maintenance and complaint handling.
She also called for clear key performance indicators (KPIs), including compliance with collection schedules, regular inspections and timely complaint resolution.
Dayang Noorazah said waste management must consider local geography, transportation challenges and community needs particularly villages in Maludam.
She urged local authorities, District Offices, the Health Department, community leaders and residents to work together to improve cleanliness and reduce public health risks. — DayakDaily
